Ok so just replace my thermostat on 1996 5.0 awd. The engine only gets up to about 158-170 max idling for like 30 mins. The upper rad hose is at around 69. What’s going on ? Bad new thermostat? I took off the fan for a test and it got right up to 205-230 and I shut it off. Has a big 3 core rad in it. Maybe the big rad new clutch fan just keeps it to cold ?
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Maybe another bad thermostat?
The thermostat controls the flow and coolant temperature. 195 degrees F.
The clutch fan, extract the heat from the coolant.
The radiator displaces, the heat in the coolant.
With that stated.
1. How are you measuring the temperature?
2. Did you drop the new thermostat in a pan of heated water to see if it open and at what temperature?
3 check the water pump bearing. Grab The fan blades to see if there side movement.
4. Check the radiator cap. AutoZone or similar part stores have loaner tool program, rent a cap tester; or buy a new radiator cap.
5. Are the radiator hoses soft?
6 Did you test the fan clutch?
Your car is not overheating. With that stated: That should mean
Your radiator is extracting heat.
You have coolant flow, because you running cool.
The fan is moving air.
